Panda Dwarf Cichlids are cave breeders that are best bred in a pH of 5.5, at higher pH's eggs are unlikely to hatch and there will be a low survival rate. It is said that warmer temperatures over 26°C (78.8°F) will give more males than females. They make excellent parents towards their eggs and fry.

These Dwarf Cichlids are best kept in either a male/female pair or one male with several females. More than one male may fight over territory. They are generally peaceful towards other tank mates, although very small fish and other species fry are likely to be eaten. Do not keep with very boisterous fish nor with fin-nippers.

In order to mimic the natural environment, the tank should be planted and furnished with plenty of bogwood and/or rocks with many hiding places. Dark sand or gravel could be used as substrate. Leaf litter is advisable. Dim lighting and/or floating plants (Pistia stratioides, Salvinia natans, Limnobium laevigatum).